How To Renew an Expired Green Card

The only way to renew your expiring Green Card is to file green card renewal Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. In the meantime, if you need confirmation of your status so that you can work or travel, you can make an appointment with your local USCIS field office through Infopass to get a temporary I-551 stamp on your passport until your new card arrives. This temporary proof of status is good for one year and that’s good since it may take that long to receive your new Green Card.

Now, if you are a conditional permanent resident who has a two-year green card and your Green Card is about to expire, DO NOT use Form I-90 to renew your expiring Green Card. In that case, you are required to file a petition to remove those conditions within 90 days of your card expiring by filing Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. If your conditional status was based on a marriage, you must also file Form I-751.

It is best that you renew your expiring Green Card within 6 months of its expiration date. If you fail to renew your Green Card and you allow it to expire, you may have difficulties in obtaining work, benefits and you will definitely have problems if you try to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad.

Will I lose my Permanent Resident status if I do not renew my expired Green Card?

If you allow your Green Card to expire, do not worry. You will not lose your Permanent Resident status. However, since you are required by law to carry proof of your Permanent Residency you should renew your expired Green Card as quickly as possible. Remember that the USCIS office will provide you with temporary proof of your lawful status while you await your new Green Card. If for some reason you do not receive your new Green Card before your temporary proof expires, just go to your local USCIS office so that they can update your document.

What if I can’t afford the expired Green Card application fee?

The current filing fee for submitting Form I-90 is $455 plus $85 in biometric fees (fingerprinting). The total cost would be $540. If you cannot afford to pay this amount, you can request the USCIS to waive the fee. The USCIS will review your request and will determine if you can afford it or not. Please note that although the USCIS does offer Fee Waiver Guidance, there are no clear-cut rules on who qualifies for a fee waiver. As a general rule, an applicant must demonstrate substantial need beyond what is ordinarily encountered in order to qualify for a fee waiver.

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